Elk Grove Roofing: Article About Preparing A Roof For Storm Season

A roof truss is the framework of a roof. Roof trusses generally include the struts, rafters and posts that support a roof. If trusses are weak from age or previously undetected damage, a severe storm can compromise a roof system to the point where roof collapse is likely to occur if the damage isn't corrected.

Question for Elk Grove roofing experts Allstate Roofing:What are the not-so-obvious signs of storm damage to a roof?

While homeowners can easily spot blown-off shingles after a storm, not all signs of damage are obvious. Fascia boards can become cracked, gutters can become detached at certain points, and weak points can develop around the flashing surrounding chimneys and skylights. During especially active storm seasons, it can be cost-effective for homeowners to schedule regular inspections to identify damage sooner rather than later.

Allstate Roofing: Reliable Roofers Elk Grove CA

A study of insurance claims related to storm damage found that more than 90 percent of all homeowners reported roof damage. Stats like this serve as a strong reminder of how severe storms can wreak havoc on both newer and older roofs. While no homeowner can be fully prepared for every storm, there are steps that can be taken to prevent or minimize damage from heavy rain and strong winds. An Elk Grove roofing professional can help homeowners determine their specific needs before storm season arrives.

Older shingles can withstand winds ranging from 50-60 mph. However, some storms can produce winds easily exceeding 70 mph. Homeowners with shingles more than 10 years old may want to consider upgrading to newer shingles. Newer asphalt shingles, for instance, are capable of withstanding winds up to 150 mph. Strong winds tend to hit shingles from the base, often resulting in quick blow-offs and damage to the underlying roof structure. A solution to this problem is interlocking shingles.

Homeowners can also prevent storm damage by scheduling a thorough roof inspection in the spring before storm season arrives. During a typical inspection, roofing professionals can apply roof adhesive to any loose shingles while looking for signs of loose gutters and weak fascia boards. It takes approximately 2-4 weeks for roof adhesive to cure properly, so this is a process that should take place as early as possible.

For homeowners with older roofs, it's not unusual for their roofing system to need a little reinforcement before storm season arrives.

The Roofing experts at Allstate Roofing of Elk Grove CA can assist you with any questions regarding storm damage or commercial roofing.

Even roofs that were properly installed are going to weaken from several years of repeated exposure to severe storms and high winds. Roof reinforcement typically involves checking for - and correcting - weak spots on top of and around a roof. Reinforcement can also involve temporarily installing plywood over roof trusses to provide protection when a hurricane or severe storm warning has been issued.

One of the most common problems with a roof following a severe storm is the loss of roof sheathing. It's this sheathing that helps keep roof trusses and rafters properly spaces. More importantly, it also holds the entire roof together. Additional fasteners added to the deck during a new installation or roof replacement can help add support to the sheathing in areas prone to storms.

Homeowners can further prevent storm-related damage by obtaining records of any previous work on their roof and confirming that their roof is in line with current codes. Homeowners can also take a proactive approach to roof maintenance during storm season by visually inspecting their roof for signs of damage following each major storm. Any issues with a roofing system beyond a few blown-off shingles should be handled by professional roofers with the proper equipment and skills necessary to safely check for damage and correct problems.

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